Becoming
Confirmation is the sacrament by which the believer receives the baptism in the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands, being empowered to live in holiness and to testify of Christ.
Ordination confirms the calling of spiritual leaders and grants them authority to serve and guide the Church according to the biblical model.
Both sacraments express the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the formation, strengthening, and ordering of Christian life.
Introduction
Grace is the means by which we are sanctified and empowered to become more like Christ.
God gives us sacraments as visible means to receive His grace.
The two principal sacraments have already been studied:
• Water Baptism – turning away from sin and new life in Christ.
• Communion – remembrance of the sacrifice of Christ.
In addition, the Church recognizes five secondary sacraments, demonstrated by Christ and practiced by the historic Church.
Confirmation
The sacrament of baptism in the Holy Spirit.
What Confirmation Is
It is the sacrament in which it is believed that the Holy Spirit fills a person through the laying on of hands.
It includes prayer and, according to the tradition of each church, anointing with oil as a symbol of the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
In Pentecostal churches, prayer is done at the altar and tongues are believed to be evidence of the Holy Spirit.
Purpose of Confirmation
It is a renewal of the vows of water baptism.
It is a mature declaration that the person remains firm in Christ.
It cannot be performed on infants; it requires a conscious decision.
It is a confirmation of what was already established in baptism.
Biblical Foundation
2 Timothy 1:6–7 — Paul reminds Timothy to stir up the gift received through the laying on of hands.
Acts 1:4–5 — Jesus promises a baptism in the Holy Spirit distinct from water baptism.
Acts 1:8 — The Holy Spirit brings power to be witnesses of Christ.
Effects and Evidence of the Holy Spirit
The person receives the fullness of the presence of the Holy Spirit.
It produces empowerment to:
Grow in the fruit of the Spirit.
Live in purity.
Be a faithful witness of Christ.
The Holy Spirit empowers the believer to overcome sin, the world, and the devil.
Romans 7 shows the struggle; Romans 8 shows victory by the Spirit.
Life in the Spirit
God calls the believer to live victoriously, not defeated.
The Christian life must be lived in the Spirit in order to be transformed into the image of Christ.
The final purpose:
To be filled with the Spirit.
To overcome sin and death.
To walk in freedom and power.
ORDINATION
The sacrament of holy orders.
What Ordination Is
It consists of the laying on of hands by church leaders to confirm gifts and callings.
It grants authority to serve Christ and the Church in the assigned office.
1 Timothy 4:14 — Timothy received his gift through the laying on of hands of the presbytery.
Leadership Structure Established by God
There are three historic and sacred ministries:
Bishops (Senior Pastors)
First among equals.
Responsible for teaching, guarding doctrine, maintaining order, and exercising discipline.
Titus 1:5–9 details the requirements of character and responsibility.
Elders (Associate Pastors)
They nourish the Church through the Word and the sacraments.
They disciple and care for the spiritual health of the congregation.
Deacons (Ministry Leaders)
They assist with practical needs.
They support hospitality, logistics, service, and administration.
Character of Leaders
All leaders must be examples to the congregation.
They must have an orderly life: home, family, and conduct.
Perfection is not required, but they must be blameless — an example of how to live in holiness and righteousness.
